Israel's Broken Heart

A long list of reckonings awaits the Israeli public.

Editor's Note: Aish.com is apolitical. When there is an existential threat to the Jewish nation, we believe that regardless of political affiliation -- left, right or center – it is our duty to sound the alarm. In this vein, we offer the following article as food for thought, and invite readers to share their views in the comment section below.

However hard Ehud Olmert tries to spin it, the U.N. ceasefire that began yesterday is a disaster for Israel and for the war on terrorism generally. With an unprecedented green light from Washington to do whatever necessary to uproot Iranian front line against Israel, and with a level of national unity and willingness sacrifice unseen here since the 1973 Yom Kippur War, our leaders squandered weeks restraining the army and fighting a pretend war. Only in the two days before the ceasefire was the army finally given the go-ahead to fight a real war.

But, by then, the U.N. resolution had codified the terms of Israel's defeat. The resolution doesn't require the immediate return of our kidnapped soldiers, but does urgently place the Shebaa Farms on the international agenda--as if the Lebanese jihadists fired some 4,000 rockets at the Israeli homefront over the fate of a bare mountain that the United Nations concluded in 1967 belonged not to Lebanon but Syria. Worst of all, it once again entrusts the security of Israel's northern border to the inept UNIFIL. As one outraged TV anchor put it, Israeli towns were exposed to the worst attacks since the nation's founding, a million residents of the Galilee fled or sat in shelters for a month, more than 150 Israeli civilians and soldiers were killed along with nearly a thousand Lebanese -- all in order to ensure the return of U.N. peacekeepers to southern Lebanon.

This is a nation whose heart has been broken: by our failure to uproot the jihadist threat, which will return for another and far more deadly round; by the economic devastation of the Galilee and of a neighboring land we didn't want to attack; by the heroism of our soldiers and the hesitations of our politicians; by the young men buried and crippled in a war we prevented ourselves from winning; by foreign journalists who can't tell the difference between good and evil; by European leaders who equate an army that tries to avoid civilian causalities with a terrorist group that revels in them; by a United Nations that questions Israel's right to defend itself; and by growing voices on the left who question Israel's right to exist at all.

At least some of the disasters of the past weeks were self-inflicted. We forfeited the public relations battle that was, in part, Israel's to lose. How is it possible that we failed to explain the justness of a war fought against a genocidal enemy who attacked us across our U.N.-sanctioned international border? It's hard to remember now, but we began this war with the sympathy of a large part of the international community. Some Arab leaders, for the first time in the history of the Middle East conflict, actually blamed other Arabs for initiating hostilities with Israel. That response came when Israel seemed determined to defeat Hezbollah; but, as the weeks dragged on and Hezbollah appeared to be winning, moderate Arabs adjusted accordingly. They didn't switch sides because we were fighting too assertively but because we weren't fighting assertively enough.

Even before the shooting stopped, the reckoning here had already begun. There are widespread expectations of dismissals for senior military commanders who -- when finally given the chance to end the Hezbollah threat they had been warning about for almost 25 years -- couldn't implement a creative battle plan. But demands for accountability won't be confined to the army alone. Journalist Ari Shavit, who has taken on something of the role of Motti Ashkenazi -- the reservist soldier who led the movement to bring down the government of Golda Meir and Moshe Dayan after the Yom Kippur War -- wrote a front-page article in Haaretz calling for Olmert's resignation. And that is only the opening shot. Even Maariv's Ben Caspit, one of Israel's most pro-Olmert journalists, published an imaginary Olmert speech of apology to the nation. A cartoon in Maariv showed Olmert as a boy playing with a yo-yo inscribed with ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES. None of Israel's wars was ever fought with greater micromanagement by a government, and no government was ever less qualified to manage a war as this one. Just as the post-Yom Kippur War period destroyed military and political careers and eventually led to the collapse of the Labor Party's hegemony, so will the post-Lebanon period end careers and perhaps even the short-lived Kadima Party experiment.

A long list of reckonings awaits the Israeli public. There's the scandal of the government's abandonment of tens of thousands of poor Israelis who lacked the means to escape the north and were confined for weeks in public shelters, their needs largely tended to by volunteers. There's the growing bitterness between Jewish Israelis and Arab Israelis, many of whom supported Hezbollah in a war most Jews saw as an existential attack on the state. And there's the emergency need to resurrect the military reserves, which have been so neglected that a majority of men over 21 don't even serve anymore and those that do tend to feel like suckers.

Still, in the Jewish calendar, the summer weeks after the fast of the Ninth of Av, commemorating the destruction of the Temple, are a time of consolation. "Be consoled, be consoled, my people," we read from the Torah on the Sabbath after the fast. And so we console ourselves with the substantial achievements of the people of Israel during this month of war. First, our undiminished capacity for unity. My favorite symbol of that unity is the antiwar rapper, Muki, whose hit song during the era of Palestinian suicide bombings lamented the absence of justice for the Palestinians but who, this time, insisted that the army needs to "finish the job" against Hezbollah.

Second, our middle-class children, with their cell phones, iPods, and pizza deliveries to their army bases. In intimate combat, they repeatedly bested Hezbollah fighters, even though the terrorists had the advantage of familiar terrain. This generation has given us some of Israel's most powerful images of heroism, like the soldier from a West Bank settlement and father of two young children who leaped onto a grenade to save his friends, shouting the Shema -- the prayer of God's oneness -- just before the grenade exploded. Along with the recriminations, there will be many medals of valor awarded in the coming weeks.

But the last month's fighting is only one battle in the jihadist war against Israel's homefront that began with the second intifada in September 2000. Israel won the first phase of that war, the four years of suicide bombings that lasted until 2004. Now, in the second phase, we've lost the battle against the rockets. But the qualities this heartbreak has revealed -- unity and sacrifice and faith in the justness of our cause -- will ensure our eventual victory in the next, inevitable, bitter round. Such is the nature of consolation in Israel in the summer of 2006.

Visitor Comments: 45

(45)
Pamela Shapiro,
July 21, 2007 10:54 PM

Agree with Roxane Betzing

Roxane Betzing could not have said it better, though I would add one very important word to her statement, as I've indicated below in capital letters (this is HER quote, with my caps added: She said, "Halevi is right on. Ashamed in the US of Bush Administration's failure to back Israel with more than words; for caving in to the the impotent (AND ANTI-SEMITIC) UN; for wasting what could have been so different."

(44)
Anonymous,
August 26, 2006 12:00 AM

Israel's broken heart

I have an observation which may not be unqiue however, because I've not seen anyone share this opinion, I thought I'd share it here. Whenever I read how observers and participants detail how this recent war was mishandled, I am unsettled and perplexed. Could it be that this war was not in mishandled but was instead, expertly handled? How can I say this? Consider that even BEFORE the outset of this war, right from the outset, your current leadership publically stated it was FOR the giving up of the Golan Heights -- and the implementation of the Convergence Plan. What better way is there to convince the public to accept this plan than by orchestrataing a war which illustrates that Israel is incapable of protecting and defending herself and her lands? If the public can be convinced that Israel can no longer defend herself, then, wouldn’t this same public see the wisdom of giving over the Golan Heights without a fight? Once everyone can see that Israel doesn’t stand a chance of winning , isn't it so much easier to just give over the Golan Heights, NOW, instead of later? Could it be that this war was not mishandled but was instead brilliantly managed ? Deliberately losing this war, might just be a rather brilliant strategy, because it enhances the probability that the public will see the wisdom of accepting the Convergence plan, doesn’t it? So, please resist this dissection of the multiple "errors" of this war, and instead see these apparent "errors" as being what they are: a brilliant strategy aimed at garnering greater public acceptace of the Convergence Plan.Blessings, Allison

(43)
quetzal,
August 26, 2006 12:00 AM

the battle may have been lost,

but there still is a war to win. Do not dispair.

(42)
Tutu,
August 25, 2006 12:00 AM

A Nation to be proud of....

I salute the Israeli Nation and the brave, benevolent and friendly jewish people. I pray for peace

(41)
Roxane Betzing,
August 25, 2006 12:00 AM

Halevi is right on

Ashamed in the US of Bush Administration's failure to back Israel with more than words; for caving in to the the impotent UN; for wasting what could have been so different.

(40)
Moss Posner, M.D.,
August 24, 2006 12:00 AM

Best appraisal to date

Halevi's ability to set forth the painful truth, both in its cynical reality and in its depiction of the pragmatic yet idealistic courageous behavior of our people during this conflict--is unparalleled. The only thing lacking is a ruthless appraisal of the motives of Olmert and his cronies: his collusion at all costs with the Bush Administration.

Sooner or later, Israel is going to have to break with the Neocons and risk the loss of a guaranteed ongoing source of military technology. This is not as impossible as it appears. The very direct way in which Israel has insisted on remaining has caused most of her most vociferous critics to shut up. That's because they know the pragmatic reality and critical necessity of Doing What's Right.

And that does not mean trying to pacify the world opinion. It means accomplishing a true ingathering. It means refusal to give up one more square inch of land, and if necessary an aggressive and pre-emptive campaign against Iran. People will back off when a moral and devoted Israel puts her money where her mouth is. It worked in 1967, 1955. The failure to be vigilent was almost fatal in the Yom Kippur War.

This present Israeli administration and its cronyism reminds me of the militant Black political cynical bigotted leaders in the U.S. such as Jackson and Farakhan.

You want Aliyah, Israel? Then give us a reason and a place. Aliyah is based upon ideals. That's why it actually increased during this recent conflict. Build it (a Holy State) and they will come.

Chaucer said, "The Truth will set thee free, have no fear." I could not say it any better.

(39)
june,
August 24, 2006 12:00 AM

My prayers are with you .I find this site so informative , I look forward to these e mails everyday.

(38)
Manuel,
August 24, 2006 12:00 AM

The courage of the IDF soldiers... one of the values that did not change with this war

In this excellent article Halevi reflected the reality of the war that just ended, with his great insight we can conclude that this war has reflected very negative aspects of the Israeli governmente and military, lack of planning, micromanegment, no succesfull Public Relations strategy...But with all this bad tidings, it is still a relief to know that the courage and dedication of the individual soldier has not changed one bit. It is still there, and will ensure the survival of Israel in the end.

(37)
Anna,
August 23, 2006 12:00 AM

Get a new plan and new Prime Minister.

I was disappointed that the IDF didn'tget to finish the job. Forget what theworld thinks especially the UN which isa joke. Defend yourself and get a PrimeMinister that has guts and military brains to do the job right.

(36)
Sharon Ott,
August 23, 2006 12:00 AM

Valiant Soldier

When I read of that soldier that jumped on the grenade while shouting the "Shema" I wanted to get down on the floor and wail...but I'm at work so I just read it aloud to everyone around me. There is "no greater love" than that.

(35)
John Benedict,
August 23, 2006 12:00 AM

Broken Heart

I do not understand why you would want to give away more land to the terrorest they will use it to send missels into the capital. Maybe its time for a political change.

(34)
real jew,
August 23, 2006 12:00 AM

thanks aish

thanks aish for publishing this very important piece.

(33)
Jim Srephens,
August 23, 2006 12:00 AM

What a tragedy that this war will have to be fought again only more bloody. The islamics want to destroy our western culture. Israel would only be their first step.

(32)
Charles H. Allen III,
August 22, 2006 12:00 AM

I apologize for Americans who don't support you.

I know that the war you are fighting is every bit as much as "our" war and can't understand the mind set of Americans who can't realize this. They've been protected and spoiled so long that they can't tell the difference between reality and fantasy. I hope that it isn't too late when their delusion bursts.

(31)
Anonymous,
August 22, 2006 12:00 AM

It's not over!

This war is not over, it's only starting. While the war plan was less than effective, the next stage will have to be. Israel has no choice but to win the war against terrorism, its very survival is at stake here.As for the media's disinformation campaign, it was surprisingly unsuccessful in western Europe. While most people won't admit it, they all support Israel, if only because they have first-hand experience of islamic terrorism.Israel did not lose the war, because the war is not over.

(30)
Anonymous,
August 22, 2006 12:00 AM

Spiritual side

The spriritual side to what has and is taking place needs to be given attention. In a word, IMHO, all those who may have believed that modern resources will solve our problems have been shown quite starkly the emptiness of this belief. Rather, as has always been the case, our future is entirely in the hands of H'. But, is anybody noticing? Is anybody affected by reading about someone self-sacrificing capable of reciting Krias Shema in his last moments? We ought to be, but are we?An analysis of any of the events in the light of the relationship between H' and Klal Yisroel would be welcomed.

(29)
C.Z.,
August 22, 2006 12:00 AM

Israel Never Forget - God Is Your Strength

Our prayers and thoughts are always withyou. There are thousands and thousandsof Christians around the world who arepraying for you. Be strong and never forget that God is your strength. Weserve the same God. With your eyes andhearts on Him, He will provide the miracles you need to survive.

(28)
Jeannette,
August 22, 2006 12:00 AM

GOD will mend your broken heart

As a Christian living in America, I am ashamed of the way Israel has been and is being treated by my country. America should have resolutely stood by Israel while Israel was attacked, condemning the attackers, and supporting Israel, with troops if necessary. But, alas, America has this unsatiable thirst for Arab oil. A pretend friend is no friend, Israel. I know that GOD will bless those that bless Israel, and so America may very well lose her blessings as she has not been a real friend to Israel. I ask GOD to bless you and keep you and make His light shine on you.

(27)
Desmond Slade,
August 22, 2006 12:00 AM

Reckonings awaiting Israel

I pity Israel for the state of its "leadership" which only scraped in because of a loose amalgamation of parties. Now it is time for all Israel to admit its mistakes and turn to the Only One Who can solve Israel's problems, Baruch HaShem. I believe that the Chief Rabbis' charge to recite Psalm 83 was prophetic. Just read the list of nations who the Psalmist said would come against Israel - today's enemies of Israel. Yisrael must wake up and turn back to HaShem in heartfelt prayer!

(26)
Nomlas Fisher,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Other than Sacrifice!

Other than Sacrafices that have to be made in War,Israel did NOT! lose this War! Has any one taken a Look At Beirut and Surrounding area, lately! They also captured Huge arms caches!! it will take another Three to Five yrs. to get back to some sense of normalsy, at the cost of about Two Billion $$$ Hizbullah,Iran,and Syria,don't want any more of this for awhile! Sure Israel could have gone in there and Killed every thing in sight! and if you think you've experienced World pressure Now!for this War, How do you think the World would react if Israel would have Totally destroyed Hizbollah and Beirut and a good part of Lebanon?? They are already calling Israel guilty of War crimes!for this one!!

(25)
Anonymous,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Olmert? It's the realpolitiks.

With the U.S. mid-term election process in full swing, an increasingly unpopular war in Iraq, and that war's seemingly endless uncertainty, is the U.S. ready to commit to a potentially disastrous premature confrontation with Iran? Maybe there is more than one proxy than meets the eye. Oy, Jewish blood at such a price.

(24)
Wendy,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

I'm sorry

I really don't know why, but the kidnap of the first soldier, only a teenager, 19 year old Cpl Gilad Shalit, brought pain to my heart and tears to my eyes. A child, with a whole life ahead, gone in an instant. And for what purpose ?I'm not Jewish, nor am I political, but please know that this whole "situation" continues to be very painful for me.For Isreali and Lebanese deaths alike, but the injustice of how this all started astounds me.Also the fact that the Lebanese "sheltering' a terrorist goup among its civilian population was not condemmed more vehemently by the UN.Instead, Isreal was called to task publicly for protecting its citizens. Take heart, Isreal did not lose the war.I'm only one voice but I commend your efforts to do all you could to save civilians, even though it put the Isreali army at a disadvantage.

(23)
Marc Milton-Talbot,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Keep your eye on the ball

Unfortunately, in the Mideast,nice guys wind up being dead guys.Go ahead Israel:do what is necessary for your survival.As far as the trendy liberals and apologists for Islam are concerned; the old saying applies: You can't do right for doing wrong.I wrote a letter in support of Israel to my national newspaper,to counter the tsunami of anti Israel ones.Suprise suprise..It didn't get published.Forget world public opinion.

(22)
Anonymous,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Everything is From G-d

The irony of this war happening in the month of Av is a reminder of how "Haman" tried to destroy all Jews (which was also in the month of Av), is a clear message that we need to increase our unity and also to appease G-d to be on our side by doing what is required of us as Jews to first Love Each Other Unconditionally and observe the 10 commandmanets including Shabat. Secondly just as Estehr tried to appease G-d using children perhaps we could teach our children who are the purest souls, the Torah and hope that their learning and prayer will save all the Jews.

(21)
Anonymous,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Very thaughtful and true comment.......

I'm disappionted in Israel Gov..perfomance.....it was poor....all praise to the IDF.....

(20)
Linda,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Your future is not determined by this set back

I know it looks to many like Israel has failed, but this is only one battle, God has not left your side, nor your future. He has plans for you, you cannot see now. but you have a future from Him.I was so inspired by the images from the news, seeing the young soldiers, they would send off a round, , and then sing, I really believe, if they would have kept on praising God, as they went, the outcome would have been very different.Israel, remember how God, in the old testament, gave the Kings of Israel, a word, when they asked Him, "Shall we go Up to Attack, or not". When they moved, He went with them, the God of Israel still performs miracles, for you Dear Israel, for You.Do not be discouraged, He is with you.

(19)
Sharon Oliver,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

The War is Not Over!

Dear Israel:There is a saying, "We may lose a battle, but we will not lose the war." Who ever said this war is over. Any sensible sane person knows that this war is just beginning. Take heart, Israel. Just fall back and regroup. Some day I hope to be able to talk in person with you. To the soldiers who fought so valiantly, you are very pleasing to G-d.

(18)
Jason Benjamin Paz,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Who Won, Son?

My son recently at the Litani River will tell you he will fight to the death if necessary. Delivered with a snicker, he knows he and his mates are the only ones to preserve the country.The senior staff is mired in the days when the Arabs would take off their shoes to run faster. The corrupt politicians rubbed their hands anticipating more graft from increased foreign aid. The judges were so busy pandering to the criminal classes they were unaware there was a war going on.Rabbis and parents do not want to see our children coming home in a box.We Jews haven't changed for 58 years.The Hezbollah has upped the game to a new level.Our kids can only go so far.

(17)
Linda,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

photo bias

Thank you very much for uncovering the bias that photojournalists have been publishing. If you truly are an apolitical organization, I would also be interested in seeing Isreali manipulation of news reporting, such as an earlier airing of NOW on PBS portrayed.

(16)
Anonymous,
August 21, 2006 12:00 AM

Maybe if we are had to deal with terrorist the way Israel does we would not second guess everything that they do to try to protect themselves.

Even as I worried if things would spill over to other counties in the Middle East, I was hoping that Israel would end the problems with Hezbollah once and for all. If we had to deal with everything that Israel deals with we would do the same. I am American living in Egypt so it could affect my life here if things start up again, but it should be Israels right to protect itself. I get very tired of people who have never dealt with terrorist telling others how they should feel or what they should do. Let them walk in Israels shoes before they give any advice or complain about the actions that are being taken.

(15)
Roy Edenson,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Respect for Israel and her security is only gained after Unchallenged Defeat

In the heat of the war, one of the General interviewed said that if the UN or the Lebanese don't remove the Hazbolah threat, they would! It is time for that promise to changed to deed. There is no such thing as mercy when it comes to these terrorist animals and the other Arab countries will never respect Israel or her right to exist for any mercy show to these weeds of humanity whose only strategic purpose to exist is to destroy and only tactical purpose is to gain favor with those who can assist in their strategic goal of the destruction of Israel. They started this war, don't depend on the UN or Lebanon to end it.Peace with Arab countries only comes after Israel soundly defeats her enemy's armies. In this case our mercy will be the overture to our destruction.

(14)
Barbara,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

YES!!!

All I can say is YES!!!!! Finally someone states the truth.

(13)
Anonymous,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

I am in wholehearted agreement with this article

I wholeheartedly agreee with the comments made in this article. I believed right from the start of this war that if Israel had been allowed to fight Hezbolah with the full extent of their ability to do so there is absolutely NO DOUBT that they would have won. It was easy to see that from day 1 that the military had been given orders to conduct this war "wearing kid gloves". As days stretched into weeks I wondered when they were going to be given permission to remove them. It was obvious that Israel's military was expected to fight with their hands tied behind their backs. Olmert has made many mistakes but his handling of the war has been his most deadly. I have always believed Netenyahu was the best leader for Israel and I STILL DO. Given the same opportunity as that given to Olmert I feel certain Netenyahu would have used every piece of arsenal at his disposal to ensure that Hezbolah would never live to fight another day and that the job would have been completed in days - much like the six day war back in 1967.I pray for Israel - for peace and security for her people - but I'm convinced that it neither can EVER be accomplished by giving away the land that was given to Abraham and his descendents.We all know there is going to be a next time but BEFORE then the Israeli people better make sure that they have elected the right man to do the job - the one who will NOT bow to world pressure.

(12)
Marilyn,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Absolutly !!

So true!! Oh that the world would read this!!

(11)
Dr F. L. Kotkin,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Military hubris

A warship engages the enemy with its radar turned off; reservists sent into battle without adequate supplies of water; an airforce commander who convinces the Minister of Defense ( who has no military experience whatsoever) that bombing alone will do the job. These are issues that the military must answer to; there will be no "second chance".

(10)
Ber,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

We are not really in possession of the Land

You do not possess something until you have authority over it. Since we submit to the UN at every turn, even when it means harm to our own people, we are not in true possession of the Land yet. This move was a mistake and I appreciate the words of this article and others here. We must continue until there is a True State of Israel not just a facade.

(9)
Alain David Hashimoto,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Neutral politics

While I understand the wisdom of remaining apolitical, it is imperative to take a truly Jewish stand on issues, especially those that threaten the very existance of Israel. It matters not what political label is attached, as long as our leaders represent Torah values and implement policies based on the same. Those who reject Jewish values do not deserve support, and in my opinion it is very wrong to want to remain neutral in the name of being apolitical.

(8)
Mark E. Kleiman,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Mending a Broken Heart

When Israel loves the Jews from Gush Katif more than fears Hezbollah, our collective heart will mend :)

(7)
herb bromberg,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

i have enjoyed your articls in the past. keep up the good work

(6)
Anonymous,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Lesson Imprinted

I knew how deeply I loved Israel, but when things were getting more difficult, I realized, that I could not bear to live a day without Isreal! I prayed, and I stepped up my donations, which was all I could do. I will not forget. I promise to keep up my efforts. I hope Israel does not make anymore concessions that are meant to be peace offerings, but are seen by the enemy, as weakness. We are not dealing with misunderstanding, but bare-faced hatred. There is no softening of their hearts. Hate is their lover, with which (whom) they will never part.

(5)
CARLA,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

thanks

Jayalim! Thank you for everything thank you for giving your lives for us ham Israel, because of you this world have something good. You are heroes. Love you Ham Israel jai Carla Zetune from Mexico

(4)
james l. wade,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

excellent analayis

I have no skills to evualuate the complexities of this war, but I sure agree with this article. The UN has always been a pathetic organization and their track record remains unbroken today. We can all be sure Israel will hae to do WHATEVER gets done in the future. I continue to pray for your country and the people who live and have their being there!

(3)
Anonymous,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

No More Mister Nice Guy

In the coming regional war, Israel must fight with the gloves taken off, no more Mister Nice Guy. Obsession with "collateral damage" simply results in more dead Jews. Any land that Israel gains in this upcoming war must be immediately annexed and filled with Jews. The hell with the U.N. and the U.S. State Department. They didn't create the Heavens and the Earth.Su., 8/19/06

(2)
Josh,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

Israel's right to exist...

We have no business in the Middle East, the state of Israel exists illegaly and we are destroying our own Jewish values to keep it. Not only that, but people are dying and we are inciting worldwide hatred.

(1)
Robin Ticker,
August 20, 2006 12:00 AM

East vs West . WWIII CH"V? The Jewish Solution

It is agreed by those that have a broad perspective, that this war is a manifistation of an ongoing war between Radical Islam and Western Society. Iran is the mastermind, Syria is the facilitator and Hizbollah has gotten its strength and weapons from these sources. Israel is the proxy for America. Radical Islam wishes to dominate the world and eliminate the West. They wish to destroy Israel in its entirety. There are elements in both the West and East that give them strenth and power. These elements if go unchecked will G-d forbid create a climate for WWIII. Judaism has the key that will mitigate these forces and channel them to G-d thereby averting catastrophe. Yet the Jews who are G-d's chosen people to bring blessings to the world have been silent. We have the Torah, and the Torah has the answers. Instead of talking Torah we are a puppet and echo the words of Democracy.

I live in rural Montana where the Cholov Yisrael milk is difficult to obtain and very expensive. So I drink regular milk. What is your view on this?

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

Jewish law requires that there be rabbinic supervision during the milking process to ensure that the milk comes from a kosher animal. In the United States, many people rely on the Department of Agriculture's regulations and controls as sufficiently stringent to fulfill the rabbinic requirement for supervision.

Most of the major Kashrut organizations in the United States rely on this as well. You will therefore find many kosher products in America certified with a 'D' next to the kosher symbol. Such products – unless otherwise specified on the label – are not Cholov Yisrael and are assumed kosher based on the DOA's guarantee.

There are many, however, do not rely on this, and will eat only dairy products that are designated as Cholov Yisrael (literally, "Jewish milk"). This is particularly true in large Jewish communities, where Cholov Yisrael is widely available.

Rabbi Moshe Feinstein wrote that under limited conditions, such as an institution which consumes a lot of milk and Cholov Yisrael is generally unavailable or especially expensive, American milk is acceptable, as the government supervision is adequate to prevent non-kosher ingredients from being added.

It should be added that the above only applies to milk itself, which is marketed as pure cow's milk. All other dairy products, such as cheeses and butter, may contain non-kosher ingredients and always require kosher certification. In addition, Rabbi Feinstein's ruling applies only in the United States, where government regulations are considered reliable. In other parts of the world, including Europe, Cholov Yisrael is a requirement.

There are additional esoteric reasons for being stringent regarding Cholov Yisrael, and because of this it is generally advisable to consume only Cholov Yisroel dairy foods.

In 1889, 800 Jews arrived in Buenos Aires, marking the birth of the modern Jewish community in Argentina. These immigrants were fleeing poverty and pogroms in Russia, and moved to Argentina because of its open door policy of immigration. By 1920, more than 150,000 Jews were living in Argentina. Juan Peron's rise to power in 1946 was an ominous sign, as he was a Nazi sympathizer with fascist leanings. Peron halted Jewish immigration to Argentina, introduced mandatory Catholic religious instruction in public schools, and allowed Argentina to become a haven for fleeing Nazis. (In 1960, Israeli agents abducted Adolf Eichmann from a Buenos Aires suburb.) Today, Argentina has the largest Jewish community in Latin America with 250,000, though terror attacks have prompted many young people to emigrate. In 1992, the Israeli Embassy in Buenos Aires was bombed, killing 32 people. In 1994, the Jewish community headquarters in Buenos Aires was bombed, killing 85 people. The perpetrators have never been apprehended.

Be aware of what situations and behaviors give you pleasure. When you feel excessively sad and cannot change your attitude, make a conscious effort to take some action that might alleviate your sadness.

If you anticipate feeling sad, prepare a list of things that might make you feel better. It could be talking to a specific enthusiastic individual, running, taking a walk in a quiet area, looking at pictures of family, listening to music, or reading inspiring words.

While our attitude is a major factor in sadness, lack of positive external situations and events play an important role in how we feel.

[If a criminal has been executed by hanging] his body may not remain suspended overnight ... because it is an insult to God (Deuteronomy 21:23).

Rashi explains that since man was created in the image of God, anything that disparages man is disparaging God as well.

Chilul Hashem, bringing disgrace to the Divine Name, is one of the greatest sins in the Torah. The opposite of chilul Hashem is kiddush Hashem, sanctifying the Divine Name. While this topic has several dimensions to it, there is a living kiddush Hashem which occurs when a Jew behaves in a manner that merits the respect and admiration of other people, who thereby respect the Torah of Israel.

What is chilul Hashem? One Talmudic author stated, "It is when I buy meat from the butcher and delay paying him" (Yoma 86a). To cause someone to say that a Torah scholar is anything less than scrupulous in meeting his obligations is to cause people to lose respect for the Torah.

Suppose someone offers us a business deal of questionable legality. Is the personal gain worth the possible dishonor that we bring not only upon ourselves, but on our nation? If our personal reputation is ours to handle in whatever way we please, shouldn't we handle the reputation of our nation and the God we represent with maximum care?

Jews have given so much, even their lives, for kiddush Hashem. Can we not forego a few dollars to avoid chilul Hashem?

Today I shall...

be scrupulous in all my transactions and relationships to avoid the possibility of bringing dishonor to my God and people.

With stories and insights,
Rabbi Twerski's new book Twerski on Machzor makes Rosh Hashanah prayers more meaningful. Click here to order...